Modern Exploitation Review: Ward Roberts’ Dust Up

Sometimes Big Gay Horror Fan and close compatriots, Apocalyptic Kitten and Deadly Johnson, long for the days when they were held in the sway of that maniacal group of snake worshipping, dildo making alcoholics. Life just seemed so much easier back then. But, then reality takes hold as yet another exploitation filled DVD screener arrives in the mail to teach us that life is so much better now.

Such is the case with writer-director Ward Roberts’ crazed and inventive Dust Up. Here, Roberts takes us into the world of drug kingpin and desert messiah Buzz (a rapturously committed Jeremiah Burkett). Under financial pressure from a crooked cop, Buzz demands immediate payment from addicted, blissed out follower, Herman (charming Travis Betz). In the time it takes to whip out your thumb for a hand job, Herman involves his frustrated wife, Ella, and two helpful strangers in one hell of a mess. Fully succumbing to paranoid grandeur, Buzz descends on Herman and Ella’s home with his devoted, vengeance loving followers and soon blood and body parts dot the barren landscape.

As a director, Roberts works with detailed energy here, fully exposing the treachery that surrounds hierarchies of every level – whether it is the warmongering powers-that-be, local authority figures or mentors of free spirited expressiveness. He, also, does not shy away from male nudity or expressing the often homosexual desires of Buzz – a treat for open minded, ready to romp viewers.
Most importantly, he navigates fine performances from his devoted cast. Aaron Gaffney’s brings a calm intensity to his Jack, Ella’s most ardent savior. As Sheriff Haggler, horror regular Ezra Buzzington (The Hills Have Eyes, Mirrors) shines with comedic depth and sharp eyed terror fans are sure to delight in the sexy presence of Victoria DeMare (Werewolf in a Women’s Prison, Killjoy 3) as an ecstatic participant at Buzz’s swinging soirees. As (Native American obsessed) Mo, Devin Barry radiates with sweet delight, as well.

Meanwhile, Amber Benson (Buffy, Supernatural, Intermedio) shines with frustrated warmth and sassy regret as the put upon yet determined Ella. Her loyal fan base is sure to delight in her layered work, here.